Does Fernandina Beach allow ADUs?
Fernandina Beach regulates them under its own land development code, which uses the term auxiliary dwelling unit. Local coverage shows the City Commission has revisited those provisions over time, so we read the current code text for your district rather than rely on older summaries. As of October 2026, we confirm the rules for each parcel with the city's planning staff before design.
What makes Fernandina Beach different?
- An island city. Fernandina Beach sits on Amelia Island in Nassau County. Parts of the island outside city limits follow Nassau County's code.
- Historic district. The downtown historic district has design review for new structures.
- Ocean and marsh. Lots near the beach may lie seaward of Florida's coastal construction control line, and lots near the marsh and the Amelia River can sit in flood zones.
- Wind. Coastal exposure brings stricter window and door protection in wind-borne debris regions.
What do we check on a Fernandina Beach lot?
- Whether the parcel is in city limits or unincorporated Nassau County.
- The zoning district and its current auxiliary dwelling unit standards.
- Historic district status and the review it requires.
- Flood zone, base flood elevation and coastal control line location.
- Any HOA or deed restrictions, common in newer island developments.
Can a Fernandina Beach ADU be a vacation rental?
It depends on the city's rules for your district and on state vacation rental licensing. Island tourism makes this a common question; we check it before you plan around guest income. See short-term rental rules.
Related
As of October 2026. Sources: Fernandina Observer coverage of City Commission changes to the auxiliary dwelling unit code; Florida coastal construction control line program. Confirm current rules with the City of Fernandina Beach.